Why We Fight?

Our Story

In loving memory of our beloved son, Donnelle Goston Jr, who—just months shy of his 2nd birthday—fought for his life after suffering extensive brain injuries while in the care of his birth mother, we founded this nonprofit to be his voice and legacy. Despite multiple reported and uninvestigated instances of abuse, there was no advocacy, education, resources, support or accountability provided.

Our son’s strength was extraordinary. Though left permanently disabled, he defied the odds and thrived nearly 14 more years—surrounded by love, advocacy, and hope—until his peaceful transition in July of 2022. His resilience continues to inspire everything we do.

Through our non-profit organization, we are committed to raising awareness about violence, abuse, and neglect against children. Our mission is to protect the most vulnerable by advocating for stronger safeguards, community education and training, parental support, and awareness. We are committed to providing support and resources to prevent child neglect and abuse. Through public education and awareness, policy change, and persistent advocacy, we honor his life by working to create a future where silence is not an option and every child can grow up free from harm.

We fight for our son—and for every child like him.

Making a Difference

Jr's Heart SAVES - A Community Oriented Focus

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SUPPORT

Providing counseling, advocacy, and resources to children and families affected by abuse or neglect.

AWARENESS

Increasing public understanding of child abuse and neglect through education, outreach, and campaigns.

VIOLENCE PREVENTION

Working to prevent abuse by addressing root causes and promoting safe, nurturing environments.

EDUCATION

Equipping communities, caregivers, and professionals with the knowledge and tools to protect children.

SAFEGUARDING FUTURES

Ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow in safety, health, and hope.

Our Mission

Working to build a safer world where every child can grow up free from harm.

To honor the life and legacy of Donnelle Jr. by breaking the silence surrounding child abuse and neglect through awareness, education, and prevention, while providing trauma-informed support to children impacted by abuse, those involved with government and foster care systems, and families navigating the court process.

Jr’s Heart is dedicated to protecting children, empowering caregivers, and strengthening communities by creating pathways to healing, safety, stability, and long-term well-being.

Core Values

In our work with individuals, families, communities, and systems, as well as with Jr’s Heart staff, we commit to honoring and adhering to the core values outlined.

In Loving Memory

We are grounded in love and remembrance. Inspired by the life of our beloved son, we commit to creating a safer world for children through compassion, awareness, and action.

A Child-Centered, Trauma-Informed Lens

We prioritize the emotional, psychological, and physical safety of children by recognizing the impact of trauma. Our work is rooted in advocacy, prevention, education, and healing that centers the unique experiences of every child and family.

Prevention Through Education & Awareness

We believe that knowledge saves lives. By equipping communities with tools, training, and information, we help break the cycle of silence and prevent abuse before it begins.

Empowerment & Support for Families

We strengthen families by offering resources, education, and encouragement that foster protective, nurturing environments. We meet caregivers with empathy, not judgment—believing every family has the potential to thrive.

Justice, Equity & Accountability

We confront the systems and conditions that allow abuse to persist. Our advocacy is shaped by a commitment to equity, transparency, and justice, ensuring every child is seen, heard, and protected—regardless of background or circumstance.

Collaboration & Community Partnership

We know we cannot do this work alone. We value meaningful partnerships with families, organizations, educators, and advocates to amplify our impact and build a united front for child protection.

Legacy in Action

Our mission is more than a cause—it is a promise. We carry forward a legacy of love, transforming grief into purpose through persistent advocacy, bold awareness, and unwavering hope for a future where no child suffers in silence.